Europe Dry Eye Syndrome Market Research Report

Europe Dry Eye Syndrome Market Size and Share:

The Europe dry eye syndrome market size was valued at USD 792.0 Million  in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 1,168.5 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.4% from 2025-2033.  The market is primarily driven by increasing prevalence of ocular disorders due to aging populations, rising screen time, and environmental factors such as pollution and low humidity. Growing awareness of eye health, advancements in diagnostic technologies, and availability of innovative treatment options like prescription eye drops and minimally invasive procedures are boosting demand. Additionally, supportive government initiatives, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and rising disposable incomes across are further fueling Europe dry eye syndrome market share, making dry eye management more accessible and widely adopted.

Europe’s aging population is a significant driver for the DES market, as tear production decreases and ocular surface health deteriorates with age. Older adults are more susceptible to conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetes, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. The increasing prevalence of these disorders is driving higher diagnosis rates and demand for effective treatments, including artificial tears, prescription medications, and advanced therapies. Healthcare providers are focusing on age-specific solutions, and patients are seeking long-term management options, making the aging demographic a crucial factor fueling Europe dry eye syndrome market growth.

Prolonged exposure to digital screens has led to a surge in dry eye cases in Europe. Extended screen time reduces blink rate, causing tear evaporation and ocular dryness. Urban living, air-conditioned environments, and pollution further aggravate symptoms. Rising awareness of digital eye strain has increased demand for preventive and therapeutic solutions, such as lubricating drops, ocular inserts, and lifestyle interventions. This trend affects not only older adults but also younger, working populations, expanding the patient base. Consequently, lifestyle-induced DES, combined with higher awareness and accessibility of treatments, serves as a key market growth driver.

Europe Dry Eye Syndrome Market Trends:

Aging Population and Increasing Prevalence of Ocular Disorders

Europe has one of the fastest-aging populations globally, and age is a key risk factor for dry eye syndrome. As people grow older, tear production decreases, and the quality of the tear film deteriorates, increasing the likelihood of DES. Additionally, age-related conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetes further exacerbate ocular surface disorders. The rising prevalence of these conditions is leading to higher diagnosis rates of dry eye, driving demand for effective treatments. Geriatric populations often seek long-term management solutions, including artificial tears, prescription medications, and advanced therapies, supporting sustained market growth. Consequently, healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing age-specific formulations and devices, further fueling market expansion across Europe.

Increasing Digital Device Usage and Lifestyle Changes

The widespread use of digital devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, has significantly contributed to the rise of dry eye syndrome in Europe. Prolonged screen time reduces blink rate, leading to tear evaporation and ocular surface dryness. Sedentary lifestyles, urban living, and exposure to air-conditioned or polluted environments further aggravate symptoms. As awareness of digital eye strain grows, more individuals are seeking preventive and therapeutic solutions, such as lubricating eye drops, ocular inserts, and lifestyle modifications. This trend is particularly strong among younger populations and working professionals, expanding the market beyond traditional older age groups. Healthcare providers and companies are increasingly developing patient education campaigns and targeted products, making lifestyle-induced DES is a key Europe dry eye syndrome market trend.

Advancements in Treatment Options and Healthcare Accessibility

Innovations in DES management, including prescription drugs, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced ophthalmic devices, are propelling market growth in Europe. New formulations like cyclosporine-based eye drops, lifitegrast solutions, and thermal pulsation devices provide more effective and convenient treatments, improving patient adherence. Additionally, Europe’s well-established healthcare infrastructure and increasing access to specialized eye care facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. Government support for eye health awareness and insurance coverage for DES therapies further encourage treatment adoption. Pharmaceutical companies are also investing in research and development to create targeted therapies for different severities of dry eye, expanding product portfolios. Together, these technological advancements and improved accessibility are a major factor driving the Europe dry eye syndrome market demand.

Europe Dry Eye Syndrome Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Europe dry eye syndrome market, along with forecast at the regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on disease type, drug type, product, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Disease Type:

• Evaporative Dry Eye Syndrome
• Aqueous Dry Eye Syndrome

Evaporative dry eye syndrome (EDE) accounts for the majority share due to its high prevalence compared to aqueous-deficient forms. EDE is primarily caused by meibomian gland dysfunction, which leads to rapid tear evaporation, and is strongly associated with lifestyle factors such as prolonged screen use, air-conditioned environments, and exposure to pollution. The growing digital device usage across all age groups has significantly increased EDE cases. Additionally, environmental and occupational factors, including low humidity and urban living, exacerbate symptoms. Awareness of EDE and availability of targeted treatments like lipid-based eye drops, thermal pulsation devices, and eyelid hygiene products have driven adoption. These factors collectively position EDE as the dominant segment in the European DES market.

Analysis by Drug Type:

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs
• Lubricant Eye Drops
• Autologous Serum Eye Drops

Based on the Europe dry eye syndrome market forecast, the anti-inflammatory treatments represent the majority share due to their effectiveness in addressing the underlying causes of the condition rather than just relieving symptoms. Chronic inflammation of the ocular surface is a key factor in DES, and anti-inflammatory therapies, including corticosteroid or immunomodulatory formulations, target this root cause, improving long-term outcomes. These treatments are particularly preferred for moderate to severe cases where lubrication alone is insufficient. Growing awareness among ophthalmologists about inflammation-driven DES, coupled with advances in formulation safety and efficacy, has increased prescription rates. Additionally, clinical guidelines recommending anti-inflammatory therapy as a standard treatment for persistent dry eye further bolster their market dominance.

Analysis by Product:

• Liquid Drops
• Gel
• Liquid Wipes
• Eye Ointment
• Others

Liquid drops dominate the market due to their ease of use, immediate symptomatic relief, and widespread availability. They are suitable for patients across all age groups and severity levels, from mild to moderate DES, making them a first-line therapy. Liquid formulations effectively lubricate the ocular surface, reduce irritation, and improve tear film stability, providing quick and visible improvement. Additionally, advancementss in preservative-free and enhanced-viscosity formulations have increased patient comfort and adherence. Their affordability, over-the-counter accessibility, and convenience for at-home use further drive adoption. Healthcare providers often recommend liquid drops as the initial or adjunct therapy, solidifying their dominant position in the European DES market.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies

Hospital pharmacies hold the majority share due to their central role in patient care and access to prescription therapies. Hospitals serve as primary points for diagnosing and managing moderate to severe dry eye cases, where specialized treatments like prescription eye drops, anti-inflammatory medications, and advanced ocular devices are required. The presence of ophthalmologists and trained staff ensures proper prescription, monitoring, and patient guidance, enhancing treatment adherence. Additionally, hospital pharmacies benefit from bulk procurement, established supply chains, and integration with healthcare insurance, making therapies more accessible and affordable. Their trusted status among patients seeking professional care further consolidates their dominance in the Europe dry eye syndrome market outlook.

Breakup by Country:

• Germany
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Spain
• Others

Germany leads the European DES market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness of ocular health, and a growing geriatric population. Rising screen usage and lifestyle changes further increase prevalence. Strong diagnostic capabilities and access to innovative treatments make Germany a key contributor to the region’s market growth.

Additionally, the France shows steady growth in the DES market, supported by widespread healthcare coverage and high patient awareness. Urban lifestyles, pollution, and prolonged digital device usage contribute to rising dry eye cases. Focus on research, product innovation, and government initiatives promoting eye health strengthen France’s position in the regional market.

Moreover, the UK market is driven by increasing digital eye strain, an aging population, and enhanced access to ophthalmic care. Public awareness campaigns and healthcare programs encourage early diagnosis and treatment. Growing adoption of advanced therapies, including prescription drops and minimally invasive devices, supports market expansion in the country.

Besides this, the Italy’s DES market is expanding due to a rising elderly population and increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related ocular disorders. Urbanization, air pollution, and high screen exposure exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, patient education, and availability of advanced treatment options further drive Italy’s market growth.

Also, in Spain, DES prevalence is increasing due to environmental factors, aging demographics, and prolonged digital device usage. Growing awareness of eye health, supportive healthcare policies, and adoption of innovative therapies such as prescription drops and ocular devices are key factors propelling market growth in the country.

Apart from this, the other European countries, including Eastern and Northern Europe, are witnessing gradual DES market growth driven by rising aging populations and lifestyle-induced ocular disorders. Increasing awareness, expanding healthcare access, and the introduction of innovative treatments are encouraging adoption, contributing to the overall expansion of the regional dry eye syndrome market.

Competitive Landscape:

The market exhibits a highly competitive landscape driven by innovation, product differentiation, and patient-centric solutions. Key players focus on developing advanced therapeutic options, including prescription medications, artificial tears, and minimally invasive devices, to address varying severity levels of the condition. The market is characterized by frequent product launches, strategic collaborations, and investments in research and development to gain a competitive edge. Regional presence, distribution networks, and accessibility to healthcare facilities also influence market positioning. Additionally, increasing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives enhance brand visibility and patient adoption. Overall, competition in the European DES market revolves around innovation, efficacy, convenience, and expanding patient reach.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Europe dry eye syndrome market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• July 2025: INEYE THERAPEUTICS, S.A., an affiliated company of the University of Coimbra (UC), Portugal, successfully raised €600,000 in its latest financing round to advance dry eye syndrome treatment technologies. This latest funding round marks a significant milestone toward the clinical approval of INEYE’s patented ocular drug delivery method, which allows medication to be injected in the eye over the duration of several months.
• May 2025: Alcon successfully received authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its TRYPTYR acoltremon ophthalmic solution, a novel treatment therapy for dry eye syndrome. TRYPTYR is a breakthrough TRPM8 receptor agonist that increases the production of natural tears by stimulating ocular sensory nerves.
• April 2025: Marinomed Biotech’s partner Sigmapharm introduced its Carragelose-based “Coldamaris protect” eye drops in Austria for the treatment of dry eye syndrome-related symptoms. This launch is a significant step toward achieving predetermined benchmarks for the earn-out provisions of the company’s contract.
• April 2025: Nordic Pharma successfully secured CE mark authorization for its innovative dry eye syndrome treatment therapy, Lacrifill. With this approval, Nordic Pharma will be able to launch Lacrifill throughout European markets in the upcoming months.

Europe Dry Eye Syndrome Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Europe dry eye syndrome market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Europe dry eye syndrome market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Europe dry eye syndrome industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.